The Samoa Meteorological Office has warned that there is a high risk a tropical depression northwest of Apia could develop into a tropical cyclone.

The advisory was issued at 5pm yesterday, which warned of severe weather triggered by the tropical depression, which was located 480km to the west of Asau and 580km northwest of Apia. 

“Tropical depression (TD11F) was located at about 480 km to the west of Asau or 580 km northwest of Apia at 2:00pm today (yesterday). The potential for this system to develop into a tropical cyclone in the next 24-36 hours is high,” the warning reads. 

“TD11F continues to track southward to the west of Samoa. At this stage, an active convergence zone which is linked to TD11F affects the group with associated heavy rain and strong Northerly winds,” the MET Office advisory said.

The country is expected to experience heavy rain and strong winds in most locations of the islands. 

There is also likely to be poor visibility, slippery roads, and low cloud in the highlands.

 “Flooding and landslides possible for low-lying and vulnerable areas. Increasing high swells and rough seas for mariners, and dangerous surf possible for coastal locations.”